Abstract
Gender and crime research has become increasingly prominent in criminological discourse,
particularly in rapidly urbanizing cities like Port Harcourt, Nigeria. This study addresses the urgent
need to understand and respond to gendered dynamics of crime in the context of rapid urbanization,
rising insecurity, and persistent gender-based criminalities in Nigeria. By examining trends in both
victimization and offending, this paper aimed at investigating the gendered patterns of criminality in
Port Harcourt. Theoretical orientation of the study anchored in Feminist Criminology and Social
Strain Theory, both of which provided critical insights into the gendered dimensions of crime and
victimization in Port Harcourt. By drawing attention to these disparate trends, the review advocates
for community-based interventions catered to the unique needs of men and women, gender-sensitive
crime prevention tactics, and changes in policing and judicial responses. Developing inclusive and
successful crime control programs in Port Harcourt and other Nigerian cities of a similar nature
requires an understanding of these gendered dynamics. It identifies notable differences in the type,
incidence, and setting of crimes committed by and against men and women in the city, drawing on
empirical research, police records, and academic literature. In contrast to men, who are more likely to
commit violent crimes like armed robbery, cultism, and gang-related violence, women are more
frequently linked to non-violent crimes like petty theft, fraud, and commercial sex work, which are
frequently motivated by financial insecurity. The review also shows that despite the fact that women
and girls are disproportionately impacted by the aforementioned gender-based crimes, these offenses
are not well reported because of institutional inefficiencies, cultural stigma, and fear of reprisals.